Arsenal have submitted an initial bid for winger target Noni Madueke, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Gunners have offered Chelsea a package worth £50million, including add-ons, after reports earlier in the day claimed they were ready to open talks with their rivals.
The Blues want more than the proposed amount, but talks are continuing between the clubs with Madueke already agreeing personal terms with Mikel Arteta's side.
Arsenal submit first bid for Noni Madueke
🚨🔴⚪️ EXCL: Arsenal have submitted initial bid for Noni Madueke around £50m package, add-ons included.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 9, 2025
Chelsea want more than £50m fixed as Elanga/similar deals remain their reference.
Good relationship between clubs as talks continue, Madueke agreed terms with Arsenal. pic.twitter.com/AVsqEZ0GXg
As previously reported, there is a gap in valuation between Arsenal and Chelsea, who are using Anthony Elanga's £55m move to Newcastle as a guide for the deal.
Due to their similar age, ability and profile, the Blues feel that is a fair comparison when valuing Madueke while they have also drawn inspiration from other similar deals.
Plenty of Arsenal fans haven't been particularly pleased with the hunt for Madueke, citing him as yet another signing of an unwanted Chelsea player.
Given his primary role within the Gunners squad is likely to be as a backup to Bukayo Saka, the club may not be willing to spend more than they have already offered, but with talks continuing, they may end up folding.
Arsenal's submission of an initial bid shows their interest in Madueke is genuine and that they do want to bring him to north London. As negotiations go on, the Gunners will likely propose a second bid, but they will have to consider whether this could have affect the other deals throughout the remainder of the window.
A striker remains the priority while another versatile attacker and defender are also on the agenda and with big money needed for those, Arsenal have to consider whether they can afford to drop a high figure on someone who is likely to be a backup.